Let the numbers do the talking.
Champaign, IL vs Chicago, IL
Champaign, IL vs Chicago, IL: What the data shows
Champaign, IL is in Champaign, IL while Chicago, IL is in Chicago, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Champaign, IL is the more affordable option at $156,600 median — $165,000 less than Chicago, IL's $321,600. WYLT rates Champaign, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Chicago, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Champaign, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Champaign, IL has High flood risk and Chicago, IL has Low flood risk.
The two neighborhoods are similarly walkable. Champaign, IL scores 60/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Chicago, IL's 60/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Champaign, IL has the higher school rating — Champaign, IL rates 7.1/10 and Chicago, IL rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Champaign, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $157K ✓ Lower price | $322K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $33K | $67K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 60/100 | 60/100 |
| Transit Score | 70/100 ✓ Better transit | 62/100 |
| Bike Score | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable | 60/100 |
| Commute | 162 min | 10 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | High | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | college studentsremote workersbudget‑conscious families | Young professionalsFood loversTransit users |
Bottom line
For young professionals or those valuing convenience and nightlife, Chicago is the better bet, with a shorter commute and more food options, but be prepared for a higher crime rate. However, families or remote workers might find Champaign, with its lower housing costs and better bike network, worth considering, albeit with significant trade-offs like longer commutes and higher flood risk. Ultimately, choose wisely depending on your priorities and lifestyle.
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